In 1849, J. Ross Browne found himself shipwrecked on the island of Juan Fernandez. What was the name of the ship he was traveling on?
- The Anteus
- The Bounty
- The Hispaniola
- The Endeavour
Correct Answer: The Anteus
Correct Answer Explanation: J. Ross Browne was traveling on the Anteus, a ship that was wrecked on the island of Juan Fernandez in 1849, marking the beginning of his thrilling adventure.
Which famous literary character found inspiration in the real-life story of Alexander Selkirk, who was shipwrecked on Juan Fernandez?
- Robinson Crusoe
- Captain Ahab
- Tarzan
- Sherlock Holmes
Correct Answer: Robinson Crusoe
Correct Answer Explanation: The character of Robinson Crusoe, created by Daniel Defoe, was inspired by the real-life tale of Alexander Selkirk, a Scottish sailor who spent four years marooned on Juan Fernandez, making the island synonymous with the legend of Crusoe.
The island of Juan Fernandez served as a temporary home for Alexander Selkirk, but it also had a history of being a haven for what group of individuals?
- Pirates
- Monks
- Missionaries
- Scientists
Correct Answer: Pirates
Correct Answer Explanation: Before becoming a temporary residence for the real-life Robinson Crusoe, Juan Fernandez was a popular haven for pirates, who used the island for supplies, shelter, and a hideout during their expeditions.
What was the main source of sustenance for the inhabitants of Juan Fernandez in the mid-19th century?
- Agriculture
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Mining
Correct Answer: Fishing
Correct Answer Explanation: The inhabitants of Juan Fernandez in the 1840s relied heavily on fishing as their primary source of food, showcasing the island’s dependence on the surrounding marine life and the limited agricultural possibilities.
J. Ross Browne’s adventurous journey took him not only to Juan Fernandez but also through the vast and rugged landscape of what state?
- Oregon
- Texas
- California
- Nevada
Correct Answer: California
Correct Answer Explanation: J. Ross Browne’s adventures led him through the diverse landscapes of California, where he witnessed the impacts of the Gold Rush and the expansion of American settlement in the West.
What was the name of the native American group that inhabited the region J. Ross Browne traveled through in California?
- Apache
- Cherokee
- Navajo
- Diggers
Correct Answer: Diggers
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Diggers” were a general term for various Native American groups that inhabited the California region during the Gold Rush.
What was the price of a ride on a horse for 25 miles during the 1860s in California?
- $5
- $10
- $30
- $50
Correct Answer: $30
Correct Answer Explanation: The cost of a ride on a horse for a short journey in California during the 1860s was a significant sum, highlighting the value placed on transportation and the challenges of traveling in the West.
How many years did Alexander Selkirk spend marooned on the island of Juan Fernandez?
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
Correct Answer: 4
Correct Answer Explanation: Alexander Selkirk, the real-life inspiration for Robinson Crusoe, spent four years stranded on Juan Fernandez, showcasing the remarkable resilience and ingenuity he exhibited to survive.
What was the average daily distance traveled by J. Ross Browne on his mule during his journey?
- 10 miles
- 20 miles
- 30 miles
- 40 miles
Correct Answer: 30 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: J. Ross Browne’s daily travel distances on his mule averaged around 30 miles, reflecting the arduous and often challenging nature of traversing the untamed landscapes of the American West.
What was the name of the island that was home to a large population of wild goats, which the Chilean inhabitants often hunted?
- Juan Fernandez
- Goat Island
- Robinson Crusoe Island
- Selkirk Island
Correct Answer: Goat Island
Correct Answer Explanation: Goat Island, located near Juan Fernandez, was a haven for wild goats that the Chilean inhabitants used to hunt for food, a practice that illustrates the island’s unique environment and the resourcefulness of the islanders.
The author encountered a wild bull and grizzly bear fight while traveling to what destination?
- San Francisco
- San Diego
- San Luis Obispo
- San Jose
Correct Answer: San Luis Obispo
Correct Answer Explanation: The author encountered the unexpected spectacle of a wild bull and grizzly bear fight during his journey to San Luis Obispo, revealing the raw and unpredictable nature of the American West.
The island of Juan Fernandez is located at what latitude and longitude?
- 33° 40´ S., and 79° W.
- 34° 40´ S., and 78° W.
- 35° 40´ S., and 77° W.
- 36° 40´ S., and 76° W.
Correct Answer: 33° 40´ S., and 79° W.
Correct Answer Explanation: Juan Fernandez is located in the latitude of 33° 40´ S., and longitude 79° W., a remote location in the Pacific Ocean, where the island has experienced a diverse history of human interaction.
What historical figure visited Juan Fernandez in 1741?
- Captain Cook
- Lord Anson
- Christopher Columbus
- Ferdinand Magellan
Correct Answer: Lord Anson
Correct Answer Explanation: Lord Anson, a British naval commander, visited Juan Fernandez in 1741, leaving his mark on the island by planting fruit trees and introducing animals, showcasing the island’s history of international engagement.
What was the name of the gambling game frequently played in California during the Gold Rush era?
- Poker
- Blackjack
- Monte
- Craps
Correct Answer: Monte
Correct Answer Explanation: Monte, a gambling game that uses cards, was popular in California during the Gold Rush, reflecting the prevalence of gambling and the pursuit of fortune in the goldfields.
What was the author’s stolen pistol worth?
- $50
- $100
- $150
- $200
Correct Answer: $150
Correct Answer Explanation: The author’s stolen pistol was worth $150, revealing the value placed on firearms in a lawless environment and the threat of violence.
What was the salary for the collector of customs at San Diego in 1864?
- $1,000
- $2,000
- $3,000
- $4,000
Correct Answer: $3,000
Correct Answer Explanation: The collector of customs at San Diego earned a salary of $3,000 per year in 1864, showcasing the level of compensation for government officials during that time.
What was the price of hay per ton in California during the Gold Rush?
- $100
- $200
- $300
- $400
Correct Answer: $300
Correct Answer Explanation: Hay, a crucial resource for livestock in the western territories, was priced at $300 per ton during the Gold Rush, illustrating the high cost of maintaining animals in a resource-scarce environment.
What was the name of the traditional Spanish dance that the author encountered in California?
- Tango
- Flamenco
- Fandango
- Salsa
Correct Answer: Fandango
Correct Answer Explanation: The Fandango, a traditional Spanish dance, was common in California during the Gold Rush era, illustrating the cultural influences on the region and the social life of the time.
What was the cost of a room at the Lake House in California during the Gold Rush?
- $0.50
- $1.00
- $1.50
- $2.00
Correct Answer: $1.00
Correct Answer Explanation: The cost of a room at the Lake House, a lodging establishment in California during the Gold Rush, was $1.00, showcasing the relative affordability of lodging in comparison to other goods and services.
What was the author’s initial estimate for the value of the cargo of the shipwrecked vessel he encountered?
- $5,000
- $10,000
- $15,000
- $20,000
Correct Answer: $10,000
Correct Answer Explanation: The author’s initial estimate for the value of the shipwrecked vessel’s cargo was over $10,000, reflecting the potential wealth associated with maritime commerce and the allure of salvage.
What was the approximate number of Indians residing in California upon the state’s admission to the Union?
- 20,000
- 50,000
- 100,000
- 200,000
Correct Answer: 100,000
Correct Answer Explanation: Approximately 100,000 Native Americans lived in California upon its admission to the Union, showcasing the significant presence of indigenous populations before the impacts of westward expansion and the Gold Rush.
The author encountered a group of 20 long-bearded Californians dressed in red shirts at what location?
- Crusoe’s Cave
- The Devil’s Gate
- Strawberry
- Virginia City
Correct Answer: Crusoe’s Cave
Correct Answer Explanation: The author encountered a group of 20 long-bearded Californians dressed in red shirts at Crusoe’s Cave, a vivid encounter that illustrates the diverse and sometimes unconventional characters that populated the American West.
The author paid $50 for a ride on an ox-cart to what destination?
- Woodford’s
- Placerville
- Virginia City
- Strawberry
Correct Answer: Woodford’s
Correct Answer Explanation: The author paid a significant sum of $50 for a ride on an ox-cart to Woodford’s, highlighting the challenges of transportation and the high cost of travel in the West.
What was the cost of a bunk in Virginia City?
- $0.50
- $1.00
- $1.50
- $2.00
Correct Answer: $1.00
Correct Answer Explanation: A bunk, a simple sleeping space, cost $1.00 in Virginia City, showcasing the relative affordability of basic necessities in a bustling mining town.
What was the name of the traditional Mexican shawl or blanket that the author encountered?
- Serapes
- Ponchos
- Rebozos
- Quipus
Correct Answer: Serapes
Correct Answer Explanation: Serapes, colorful Mexican shawls or blankets, were a common sight in California during the Gold Rush era, demonstrating the influence of Mexican culture on the region.
What type of dwelling was the author referring to when he used the term “Wigwam”?
- A dwelling used by Native Americans
- A tent used by pioneers
- A hut made from wood
- A structure built with bricks
Correct Answer: A dwelling used by Native Americans
Correct Answer Explanation: The term “Wigwam” refers to a traditional dwelling used by Native American tribes, showcasing the author’s awareness of the diverse cultural practices of indigenous peoples.
What was the name of the strong alcoholic beverage that was popular in the American West during the 19th century?
- Rum
- Gin
- Whiskey
- Brandy
Correct Answer: Whiskey
Correct Answer Explanation: Whiskey, a strong alcoholic beverage, was widely consumed in the American West during the 19th century, reflecting the social customs and cultural influences of the time.
What was the name of the Spanish or Mexican magistrate that the author encountered?
- Alcalde
- Gobernador
- Juez
- Corregidor
Correct Answer: Alcalde
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Alcalde” was a Spanish or Mexican magistrate who held authority in local communities, showcasing the remnants of Spanish influence in the Western territories.
What was the name of the indigenous tribe that the author encountered near the Sierra Nevada Mountains?
- Apache
- Cherokee
- Navajo
- Pah-Ute
Correct Answer: Pah-Ute
Correct Answer Explanation: The Pah-Ute, a Native American tribe, resided in the region near the Sierra Nevada Mountains, highlighting the diverse indigenous populations that inhabited California.
What was the name of the American settler that the author encountered on Juan Fernandez?
- The American Crusoe
- The Hermit
- The Castaway
- The Lone Ranger
Correct Answer: The American Crusoe
Correct Answer Explanation: The American Crusoe, a character encountered by the author on Juan Fernandez, was a stark contrast to the idealized image of Robinson Crusoe, offering a glimpse into the realities of isolation and the challenges of human interaction.
What was the name of the group of self-appointed citizens who maintained law and order in a community?
- Vigilance Committee
- The Posse
- The Sheriff’s Department
- The National Guard
Correct Answer: Vigilance Committee
Correct Answer Explanation: Vigilance Committees, groups of self-appointed citizens, took on the responsibility of maintaining law and order in communities lacking established institutions, reflecting the challenges of law enforcement in frontier territories.
What was the name of the wild, unbroken horse that the author encountered in California?
- Mustang
- Bronco
- Palomino
- Appaloosa
Correct Answer: Bronco
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Bronco” was a wild, unbroken horse that the author encountered in California, showcasing the untamed nature of the West and the challenges of controlling wild animals.
What was the name of the type of horse that was covered in a thick coat of hair?
- Woolly Horse
- Shetland Pony
- Clydesdale
- Percheron
Correct Answer: Woolly Horse
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Woolly Horse” was a type of horse known for its thick coat, highlighting the diversity of livestock and the adaptation of animals to different climates and environments.
The author encountered a group of Sonoranians and outlaw Californians at what location?
- Soledad
- San Luis Obispo
- Strawberry
- Virginia City
Correct Answer: Soledad
Correct Answer Explanation: The author encountered a group of Sonoranians and outlaw Californians at Soledad, revealing the presence of lawlessness and the dangers faced by travelers in the region.
What was the author’s mule worth?
- $100
- $200
- $300
- $400
Correct Answer: $300
Correct Answer Explanation: The author’s mule cost $300, highlighting the significant investment required for transportation and the value placed on reliable animals in the West.
What was the name of the dish made with tripe that was popular in Spanish-speaking countries?
- Oja
- Frijoles
- Tortilla
- Empanadas
Correct Answer: Oja
Correct Answer Explanation: “Oja,” a dish made with tripe, was a popular food in Spanish-speaking countries, showcasing the cultural influences on the cuisine of the region.
What was the name of the dry creek bed or ravine that the author encountered during his journey?
- Arroyo
- Canyon
- Gulch
- Ravine
Correct Answer: Arroyo
Correct Answer Explanation: An “Arroyo” is a dry creek bed or ravine, a common feature in the arid landscapes of the American West, reflecting the geographical characteristics of the region.
What was the name of the type of tent made of brushwood that the author encountered?
- Chaparden
- Wigwam
- Teepee
- Yurt
Correct Answer: Chaparden
Correct Answer Explanation: A “Chaparden” was a type of tent made from brushwood, a simple shelter that reflected the resourcefulness and practicality of pioneer life in the West.
What was the name of the species of deer native to North and South America that the author encountered?
- Antelope
- Elk
- Moose
- Reindeer
Correct Answer: Antelope
Correct Answer Explanation: The author encountered “Antelope,” a species of deer native to North and South America, illustrating the diversity of wildlife found in the American West.
What was the name of the political term used in the 1800s to describe a conservative faction?
- Hunkers
- Whigs
- Democrats
- Republicans
Correct Answer: Hunkers
Correct Answer Explanation: “Hunkers” was a political term used in the 1800s to describe a conservative faction, reflecting the political landscape of the time.
What was the name of the type of palm tree found on Juan Fernandez?
- Chuta
- Coconut Palm
- Date Palm
- Royal Palm
Correct Answer: Chuta
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Chuta” is a type of palm tree found on Juan Fernandez, a unique element of the island’s flora, highlighting the island’s unique ecological environment.
What was the name of the mineral veins or deposits containing valuable ore that the author encountered?
- Leads
- Croppings
- Ledges
- Veins
Correct Answer: Leads
Correct Answer Explanation: The author encountered “Leads,” which are mineral veins or deposits containing valuable ore, showcasing the importance of mining and the pursuit of riches in the American West.
What was the name of the dish of beans that was common in Spanish-speaking countries?
- Frijoles
- Tortillas
- Empanadas
- Tamales
Correct Answer: Frijoles
Correct Answer Explanation: “Frijoles,” a dish of beans, was a staple in Spanish-speaking countries, reflecting the cultural influences on the cuisine and the importance of beans as a source of sustenance.
What was the name of the large, ferocious bear native to North America that the author encountered?
- Grizzly Bear
- Black Bear
- Polar Bear
- Kodiak Bear
Correct Answer: Grizzly Bear
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Grizzly Bear,” a large and formidable predator, was a common sight in the American West during the 19th century, representing the wild and untamed nature of the region.
What was the name of the wild dog native to North America that the author encountered?
- Coyote
- Wolf
- Fox
- Jackal
Correct Answer: Coyote
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Coyote,” a wild dog native to North America, was a common sight in the American West, showcasing the diversity of wildlife and the interaction between humans and animals in the region.